Digital asthma self-management interventions: a systematic review

The Asthma App as a New Way to Promote Responsible Short-Acting Beta2-Agonist Use in People With Asthma: Results of a Mixed Methods Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

Approximately 262 million people worldwide are affected by asthma, and the overuse of reliever medication-specifically, short-acting beta2-agonist (SABA) overuse-is common. This can lead to adverse health effects. A smartphone app, the Asthma app, was developed via a participatory design to help patients gain more insight into their SABA use through monitoring and psychoeducation.

OBJECTIVE

This pilot study aims to evaluate the feasibility and usability of the app. The preliminary effects of using the app after 3 months on decreasing asthma symptoms and improving quality of life were examined.

METHODS

A mixed methods study design was used. Quantitative data were collected using the app. Asthma symptoms (measured using the Control of Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma Test) and the triggers of these symptoms were collected weekly. Quality of life (36-Item Short-Form Health Survey) was assessed at baseline and after 3, 6, and 12 months. User experience (System Usability Scale) was measured at all time points, except for baseline. Furthermore, objective user data were collected, and qualitative interviews, focusing on feasibility and usability, were organized. The interview protocol was based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology framework. Qualitative data were analyzed using the Framework Method.

RESULTS

The baseline questionnaire was completed by 373 participants. The majority were female (309/373, 82.8%), with a mean age of 46 (SD 15) years, and used, on average, 10 SABA inhalations per week. App usability was rated as good: 82.3 (SD 13.2; N=44) at 3 months. The Control of Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma Test score significantly improved at 3 months (18.5) compared with baseline (14.8; β=.189; SE 0.048; P<.001); however, the obtained score still indicated uncontrolled asthma. At 3 months, there was no significant difference in the quality of life. Owing to the high dropout rate, insufficient data were collected at 6 and 12 months and were, therefore, not further examined. User data showed that 335 users opened the app (250/335, 74.6%, were returning visitors), with an average session time of 1 minute, and SABA registration was most often used (7506/13,081, 57.38%). Qualitative data (from a total of 4 participants; n=2, 50% female) showed that the participants found the app acceptable and clear. Three participants stated that gaining insight into asthma and its triggers was helpful. Two participants no longer used the app because they perceived their asthma as controlled and, therefore, did not use SABA often or only used it regularly based on the advice of the pulmonologist.

CONCLUSIONS

The initial findings regarding the app's feasibility and usability are encouraging. However, the notable dropout rate underscores the need for a cautious interpretation of the results. Subsequent studies, particularly those focusing on implementation, should explore the potential integration of the app into standard treatment practices.

Non-pharmacological interventions for asthma prevention and management across the life course: Umbrella review

BACKGROUND

The impact of non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs) on asthma prevention and management is insufficiently examined. We aim to comprehensively evaluate and synthesize existing evidence regarding the effectiveness of various NPIs throughout the life course.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search and screening of reviews that examined the effectiveness of various NPIs on asthma prevention and control in the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, and Ovid databases. Data extraction was performed by considering the type of NPIs and the life course stages of the target population. Recommendations were provided by considering the quality of review assessed using the AMSTAR2 tool and the consistency of findings across reviews.

RESULTS

We identified 145 reviews and mapped the evidence on the impact of 25 subtypes of NPIs on asthma prevention and control based on five stages of life course. Reviews indicated a shift of focus and various impacts of major NPIs on asthma prevention and control across life courses, while a few types of NPIs, such as physical exercise, appeared to be beneficial in children, adolescents and adults. Consistent and high-level evidence was observed only for psychological intervention on asthma control and quality of life among adults and older adults. Potential benefit with high-level evidence was reported on certain NPIs, such as vitamin D in reducing risk of developing asthma in offsprings in the prenatal stage, digital health interventions in improving asthma control from childhood to older adulthood, and breathing exercise in improving quality of life, asthma-related symptoms and lung function in adulthood and older adulthood.

CONCLUSION

This study emphasizes the significance of delivering NPIs to improve asthma prevention and management and highlights the heterogeneity regarding the impact of NPIs across life courses. High-quality research is urgently needed to further strengthen the evidence base of NPIs and tailored interventions should be considered in guideline development.

Improving asthma control and quality of life via a smartphone self-management app: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Mobile phone applications (apps) show promise for enhancing asthma self-management, but their effectiveness varies. This study examined the effect of a smartphone asthma app on asthma control and quality of life.

METHODS

Using block randomization, 60 patients with asthma were allocated to an intervention group (n = 30) or control group (n = 30) for this single-blind randomized controlled trial. At baseline, both groups completed the Asthma Control Test (ACT) and Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire-Marks (AQLQ-M). The intervention group used a smartphone-based asthma self-management app plus their regular treatment, while the control group received only usual care. Follow-up ACT and AQLQ-M assessments occurred at 3 and 6 months. SPSS version 26 was used for analysis, including descriptive statistics, non-parametric tests (Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney U), and analysis of variance with repeated measurements.

RESULTS

Both groups showed improved asthma control and quality of life at 3 and 6 months compared to baseline. However, after 6 months the intervention group had significantly greater improvement than controls (p < 0.05). Repeated measures ANOVA revealed divergent changes in ACT and AQLQ-M scores over time, with the intervention group demonstrating greater enhancement of asthma control and quality of life (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that use of a smartphone-based asthma self-management app improved asthma control and quality of life after 6 months compared to usual care alone. These findings indicate that guideline-based asthma apps can positively impact outcomes.

Timing, Indicators, and Approaches to Digital Patient Experience Evaluation: Umbrella Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

The increasing prevalence of DH applications has outpaced research and practice in digital health (DH) evaluations. Patient experience (PEx) was reported as one of the challenges facing the health system by the World Health Organization. To generate evidence on DH and promote the appropriate integration and use of technologies, a standard evaluation of PEx in DH is required.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to systematically identify evaluation timing considerations (ie, when to measure), evaluation indicators (ie, what to measure), and evaluation approaches (ie, how to measure) with regard to digital PEx. The overall aim of this study is to generate an evaluation guide for further improving digital PEx evaluation.

METHODS

This is a 2-phase study parallel to our previous study. In phase 1, literature reviews related to PEx in DH were systematically searched from Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases. Two independent raters conducted 2 rounds of paper screening, including title and abstract screening and full-text screening, and assessed the interrater reliability for 20% (round 1: 23/115 and round 2: 12/58) random samples using the Fleiss-Cohen coefficient (round 1: k1=0.88 and round 2: k2=0.80). When reaching interrater reliability (k>0.60), TW conducted the rest of the screening process, leaving any uncertainties for group discussions. Overall, 38% (45/119) of the articles were considered eligible for further thematic analysis. In phase 2, to check if there were any meaningful novel insights that would change our conclusions, we performed an updated literature search in which we collected 294 newly published reviews, of which 102 (34.7%) were identified as eligible articles. We considered them to have no important changes to our original results on the research objectives. Therefore, they were not integrated into the synthesis of this review and were used as supplementary materials.

RESULTS

Our review highlights 5 typical evaluation objectives that serve 5 stakeholder groups separately. We identified a set of key evaluation timing considerations and classified them into 3 categories: intervention maturity stages, timing of the evaluation, and timing of data collection. Information on evaluation indicators of digital PEx was identified and summarized into 3 categories (intervention outputs, patient outcomes, and health care system impact), 9 themes, and 22 subthemes. A set of evaluation theories, common study designs, data collection methods and instruments, and data analysis approaches was captured, which can be used or adapted to evaluate digital PEx.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings enabled us to generate an evaluation guide to help DH intervention researchers, designers, developers, and program evaluators evaluate digital PEx. Finally, we propose 6 directions for encouraging further digital PEx evaluation research and practice to address the challenge of poor PEx.

Impact of the implementation of a telemedicine program on patients diagnosed with asthma

BACKGROUND

Asthma is one of the most common respiratory ailments worldwide. Despite broad understanding of the illness and of the available therapeutic options for it, patients with serious asthma suffer poor monitoring of their illness in 50% of cases.

AIM

To assess the impact of the implementation of a mobile application (ESTOI) to control asthma in patients diagnosed with the illness, their adherence to treatment, and their perceived quality of life.

METHODOLOGY

Randomized clinical trial with 52 weeks' follow-up of patients with asthma seen in a specialized hospital for their treatment in Spain. Some 108 included patients will be divided into two groups. The intervention group will undergo more exhaustive follow-up than normal, including access to the ESTOI application, which will have various categories of attention: control of symptoms, health recommendations, current treatment and personalized action plan, PEF record, nutritional plan, and chat access with a medical team. The asthma control questionnaire ACT is the main assessment variable. Other variables to be studied include an adherence test for the use of inhalers (TAI), the number of exacerbations, maximum exhalation flow, exhaled nitric oxide test, hospital anxiety and depression scale, asthma quality-of-life questionnaire, forced spirometry parameters (FVC, FEV1, and PBD), and analytic parameters (eosinophilia and IGE). The data will be collected during outpatient visits.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial has registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT06116292).

Clinical efficacy and satisfaction of a digital wheeze detector in a multicentre randomised controlled trial: the WheezeScan study

Introduction

Wheezing is common in preschool children and its clinical assessment often challenging for caretakers. This study aims to evaluate the impact of a novel digital wheeze detector (WheezeScan™) on disease control in a home care setting.

Methods

A multicentre randomised open-label controlled trial was conducted in Berlin, Istanbul and London. Participants aged 4-84 months with a doctor's diagnosis of recurrent wheezing in the past 12 months were included. While the control group followed usual care, the intervention group received the WheezeScan™ for at-home use for 120 days. Parents completed questionnaires regarding their child's respiratory symptoms, disease-related and parental quality of life, and caretaker self-efficacy at baseline (T0), 90 days (T1) and 4 months (T2).

Results

A total of 167 children, with a mean±sd age of 3.2±1.6 years, were enrolled in the study (intervention group n=87; control group n=80). There was no statistically significant difference in wheeze control assessed by TRACK (mean difference 3.8, 95% CI -2.3-9.9; p=0.2) at T1 between treatment groups (primary outcome). Children's and parental quality of life and parental self-efficacy were comparable between both groups at T1. The evaluation of device usability and perception showed that parents found it useful.

Conclusion

In the current study population, the wheeze detector did not show significant impact on the home management of preschool wheezing. Hence, further research is needed to better understand how the perception and usage behaviour may influence the clinical impact of a digital support.

The treatable traits approach to adults with obstructive airways disease in primary and secondary care

The treatable traits approach is based on the recognition that the different clinical phenotypes of asthma and chronic obstructive airways disease (COPD) are a heterogeneous group of conditions with different underlying mechanisms and clinical manifestations, and that the identification and treatment of the specific clinical features or traits facilitates a personalised approach to management. Fundamentally, it recognises two important concepts. Firstly, that treatment for obstructive lung disease can achieve better outcomes if guided by specific clinical characteristics. Secondly, that in patients with a diagnosis of asthma, and/or COPD, poor respiratory health may also be due to numerous overlapping disorders that can present with symptoms that may be indistinguishable from asthma and/or COPD, comorbidities that might require treatment in their own right, and lifestyle or environmental factors that, if addressed, might lead to better control rather than simply increasing airways directed treatment. While these concepts are well accepted, how best to implement this personalised medicine approach in primary and secondary care within existing resource constraints remains uncertain. In this review, we consider the evidence base for this management approach and propose that the priority now is to assess different prototype templates for the identification and management of treatable traits in both asthma and COPD, in primary, secondary and tertiary care, to provide the evidence that will guide their use in clinical practice in different health care systems.

Are older adults considered in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease mobile health research? A scoping review

BACKGROUND

The use of mobile health (mHealth) for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is rapidly growing and may help address the complex respiratory care needs of our ageing population. However, little is currently known about how airways mHealth is developed and used among older adults (≥65 years).

OBJECTIVE

To identify if and how older adults with asthma and COPD have been incorporated across the mHealth research cycle.

METHODS

We searched Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials for studies pertaining to the development or evaluation of asthma and COPD mHealth for adults published after 2010. Study, participant and mHealth details, including any considerations of older age, were extracted, synthesised and charted.

RESULTS

A total of 334 studies of 191 mHealth tools were identified. Adults ≥65 years old were included in 33.3% of asthma mHealth studies and 85.3% of COPD studies. Discussions of older age focused on barriers to technology use. Methodologic and/or analytic considerations of older age were mostly absent throughout the research cycle. Among the 28 instances quantitative age-related analyses were detailed, 12 described positive mHealth use and satisfaction outcomes in older adults versus negative or equivocal outcomes.

CONCLUSION

We identified an overall lack of consideration for older age throughout the airways mHealth research cycle, even among COPD mHealth studies that predominantly included older adults. We also found a contrast between the perceptions of how older age might negatively influence mHealth use and available quantitative evaluations. Future airways mHealth research must better integrate the needs and concerns of older adults.

How are mental representations of asthma triggers and symptoms related to interpersonal risk perceptions? A psychometric investigation of caregivers of children with asthma

OBJECTIVE

Parents and guardians (hereafter caregivers) make decisions for their children's medical care. However, many caregivers of children with asthma struggle to understand their child's illness. We used the psychometric paradigm to investigate how caregivers conceptualize, or mentally represent, asthma triggers and symptoms and how these representations are linked to perceived asthma exacerbation risk.

METHODS

We asked 377 caregivers of children with asthma across the U.S. to rate 20 triggers or 20 symptoms along 15 characteristics. Caregivers also indicated their perceived risk of their child having an asthma exacerbation (hereafter interpersonal risk perceptions). Using principal components analysis, we extracted key dimensions underlying caregivers' ratings on the characteristics. Then we related the triggers' and symptoms' scores on the dimensions to caregivers' interpersonal risk perceptions.

RESULTS

Interpersonal risk perceptions were higher for triggers with high ratings for the dimensions severe and relevant, and negative affect-yet manageable, but not chronic-yet unpredictable. Risk perceptions were also higher for symptoms with high ratings for the dimensions severe and unpredictable, and relevant and common, but not self-blame or manageable despite unknown cause.

CONCLUSION

By identifying key dimensions underlying caregivers' mental representations of asthma triggers and symptoms, these findings can inform a new approach to asthma education.

Digital Action Plan (Web App) for Managing Asthma Exacerbations: Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

A written action plan (WAP) for managing asthma exacerbations is recommended.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to compare the effect on unscheduled medical contacts (UMCs) of a digital action plan (DAP) accessed via a smartphone web app combined with a WAP on paper versus that of the same WAP alone.

METHODS

This randomized, unblinded, multicenter (offline recruitment in private offices and public hospitals), and parallel-group trial included children (aged 6-12 years) or adults (aged 18-60 years) with asthma who had experienced at least 1 severe exacerbation in the previous year. They were randomized to a WAP or DAP+WAP group in a 1:1 ratio. The DAP (fully automated) provided treatment advice according to the severity and previous pharmacotherapy of the exacerbation. The DAP was an algorithm that recorded 3 to 9 clinical descriptors. In the app, the participant first assessed the severity of their current symptoms on a 10-point scale and then entered the symptom descriptors. Before the trial, the wordings and ordering of these descriptors were validated by 50 parents of children with asthma and 50 adults with asthma; the app was not modified during the trial. Participants were interviewed at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months to record exacerbations, UMCs, and WAP and DAP use, including the subjective evaluation (availability and usefulness) of the action plans, by a research nurse.

RESULTS

Overall, 280 participants were randomized, of whom 33 (11.8%) were excluded because of the absence of follow-up data after randomization, leaving 247 (88.2%) participants (children: n=93, 37.7%; adults: n=154, 62.3%). The WAP group had 49.8% (123/247) of participants (children: n=45, 36.6%; mean age 8.3, SD 2.0 years; adults: n=78, 63.4%; mean age 36.3, SD 12.7 years), and the DAP+WAP group had 50.2% (124/247) of participants (children: n=48, 38.7%; mean age 9.0, SD 1.9 years; adults: n=76, 61.3%; mean age 34.5, SD 11.3 years). Overall, the annual severe exacerbation rate was 0.53 and not different between the 2 groups of participants. The mean number of UMCs per year was 0.31 (SD 0.62) in the WAP group and 0.37 (SD 0.82) in the DAP+WAP group (mean difference 0.06, 95% CI -0.12 to 0.24; P=.82). Use per patient with at least 1 moderate or severe exacerbation was higher for the WAP (33/65, 51% vs 15/63, 24% for the DAP; P=.002). Thus, participants were more likely to use the WAP than the DAP despite the nonsignificant difference between the action plans in the subjective evaluation. Median symptom severity of the self-evaluated exacerbation was 4 out of 10 and not significantly different from the symptom severity assessed by the app.

CONCLUSIONS

The DAP was used less often than the WAP and did not decrease the number of UMCs compared with the WAP alone.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02869958; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02869958.

Impact of a digital web-based asthma platform, a real-life study

BACKGROUND

Digital health technology (DHT) is a growing area in the treatment of chronic diseases. Study results on DHT's effect on asthma control have been mixed, but benefits have been seen for adherence, self-management, symptoms, and quality of life. The aim was to evaluate the impact of an interactive web-based asthma treatment platform on asthma exacerbations and health care visits.

METHODS

In this real-life study, we retrospectively collected data on adult patients registered on a web-based interactive asthma treatment platform between December 2018 and May 2021. Patients who activated their accounts were active users, and patients who did not were inactive users and considered as controls. We compared the number of exacerbations, total number of exacerbation events defined as the sum of oral corticosteroid (OCS) and antimicrobial courses, emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and asthma-related health care visits before and one year after the registration on the platform. Statistical tests used included the t-test, Pearson's chi-square test and Poisson regression models.

RESULTS

Of 147 patients registered on the platform, 106 activated their accounts and 41 did not. The active users had significantly fewer total number of exacerbation events (2.56 per person years, relative decline 0.78, 95% CI 0.6 to 1.0) and asthma-related health care visits (2.38 per person years, relative decline 0.84, 95% CI 0.74 to 0.96) than before registration to the platform, whereas the reductions in health care visits and the total number of exacerbation events were not significant in the inactive users.

CONCLUSIONS

An interactive web-based asthma platform can reduce asthma-related health care visits and exacerbations when used actively.

Use of Behavior Change Techniques and Quality of Commercially Available Inflammatory Bowel Disease Apps

BACKGROUND

Inclusion of evidence-based behavior change techniques (e.g., self-monitoring) in mobile health apps has the potential to promote adherence to inflammatory bowel disease treatment. While inflammatory bowel disease management apps exist, the extent to which they incorporate behavior change techniques remains unknown.

AIMS

The present study systematically evaluated the content and quality of free, commercially available inflammatory bowel disease management apps.

METHODS

Apps were identified using a systematic search of the Apple App and Google Play stores. Apps were evaluated using Abraham and Michie's taxonomy of 26 behavior change techniques. A literature search was conducted to identify behavior change techniques specific and relevant for people with inflammatory bowel disease. App quality was assessed using the Mobile App Rating Scale with scores ranging from 1 (Inadequate) to 5 (Excellent).

RESULTS

A total of 51 inflammatory bowel disease management apps were evaluated. Apps included 0-16 behavior change techniques (Mean = 4.55) and 0-10 inflammatory bowel disease management behavior change techniques (Mean = 3.43). App quality ranged from 2.03 to 4.62 (Mean = 3.39) out of 5.00. Two apps, My IBD Care: Crohn's & Colitis and MyGiHealth GI Symptom Tracker, included the highest number of overall and inflammatory bowel disease management behavior change techniques along with high-quality scores. Bezzy IBD was the only app with a high number of overall and inflammatory bowel disease management behavior change techniques with a primary focus on social support/change.

CONCLUSION

Most inflammatory bowel disease management apps reviewed included evidence-based inflammatory bowel disease management behavior change techniques.

A Scoping Review of Digital Interventions that Treat Post-/Long-COVID

BACKGROUND

Patients with Post-/Long-COVID need support, and health care professionals require evidence-based patient care. Digital interventions can meet these requirements, especially if personal contact is limited.

OBJECTIVE

We reviewed evidence-based digital interventions, to help manage physical and mental health, for patients with Post-/Long-COVID.

METHODS

A scoping review was carried out; summarizing novel digital health interventions for treating Post-/Long-COVID patients. Using the PICO scheme, original studies were summarized in which patients with Post-/Long-COVID symptoms used digital interventions to help aid recovery.

RESULTS

From all scanned articles, k = 8 original studies matched the inclusion criteria. Three were "pre-test" studies. Three describe the implementation of a tele-rehabilitation program, one is a Post-/Long-COVID program, and one study describes the results of qualitative interviews with patients who used an online peer support group. Following the PICO scheme, we categorized previous studies: studies varied in terms of (P) participants, ranging from adults in different countries, such as former hospitalized patients with COVID-19, to disadvantaged communities in the UK, as well as health-care workers. In addition, the studies included patients who had previously been infected with COVID-19, who had ongoing symptoms, and some studies focused on specific symptoms, some post-COVID-19 or long-term. Other studies included patients in online peer support groups. The (I) interventions also varied. Most interventions used a combination of psychological and physical exercises, but they varied in duration, frequency, and social dimensions. The reviewed studies investigated physical and mental health (C) conditions of patients with Post-/Long-COVID. Most studies reported (O) outcomes/ improvements in physiological health perception, some physical conditions, fatigue, and some psychological aspects such as depression. However, some studies found no improvements in bowel/bladder problems, concentration, short-term memory, unpleasant dreams, physical ailments, perceived bodily pain, emotional ailments, and perceived mental health.

CONCLUSIONS

More systematic research with larger sample sizes is required to overcome sampling bias and include the health care professionals' perspective as well as help patients mobilize support by health care professionals and social network partners. The evidence so far suggests that patients should be provided with digital interventions to manage symptoms and reintegrate into everyday life, including work.

CLINICALTRIAL

Digital Interventions for Social Participation in Adults with Long-term Physical Conditions: A Systematic Review

This review aims to identify and evaluate digital interventions for social participation in the growing population of adults with long-term physical conditions. Articles were sourced from MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and PsycINFO databases using subject headings and keywords related to "social participation" and "digital technology". Studies that adopted digital technology interventions to improve social participation in adults with long-term physical conditions were included. Data on study methodology, participant and digital intervention characteristics, and findings related to social participation were extracted. The search yielded a total of 4646 articles and 14 articles met criteria for final review with five randomized controlled trials, two non-randomized clinical trials and seven one-group pretest-posttest clinical trials. Studies were organized based on the digital intervention strategy implemented to improve social participation: group support (n = 4), individual skill training or counseling (n = 6), education and support (n = 3), and mixed intervention (n = 1). The group support interventions developed a social network among participants through videoconference, app, or virtual reality platform. Three studies reported positive improvements in different aspects of social participation. Individual skill training or counseling mainly utilized phone calls to help participants cope with activity participation and interpersonal relationship issues. Only two studies demonstrated benefits for social participation. The education and support intervention, which used messages and website information to increase participants' knowledge and provide support, showed positive findings in three studies. This review suggests digital interventions for improving social participation in adults with long-term physical conditions are feasible and the effectiveness of different strategies may vary.Registration: This review was prospectively registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (registry number: CRD42021254105).

Asynchronous digital health interventions for reviewing asthma: A mixed-methods systematic review protocol

INTRODUCTION

People living with asthma require regular reviews to address their concerns and questions, assess control, review medication, and support self-management. However, practical barriers to attending face-to-face consultations might limit routine reviews. Reviewing asthma using asynchronous digital health interventions could be convenient for patients and an efficient way of maintaining communication between patients and healthcare professionals and improving health outcomes. We, therefore, aim to conduct a mixed-methods systematic review to assess the effectiveness of reviewing asthma by asynchronous digital health interventions and explore the views of patients and healthcare professionals about the role of such interventions in delivering asthma care.

METHODS

We will search MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, PsycInfo, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library from 2001 to present without imposing any language restrictions. We are interested in studies of asynchronous digital health interventions used either as a single intervention or contributing to mixed modes of review. Two review authors will independently screen titles and abstracts, and retrieve potentially relevant studies for full assessment against the eligibility criteria and extract data. Disagreements will be resolved by discussion with the review team. We will use 'Downs and Black' checklist, 'Critical Appraisal Skills Programme', and 'Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool' to assess methodological quality of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies respectively. After synthesising quantitative (narrative synthesis) and qualitative (thematic synthesis) data separately, we will integrate them following methods outlined in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this review will provide insights into the role of asynchronous digital health interventions in the routine care of people living with asthma.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Systematic review registration: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022344224.

"I Assumed It Would Be Somebody Who Had a Stroke That Was Doing This": Views of Stroke Survivors, Caregivers, and Health Professionals on Tailoring a Relaxation and Mindfulness Intervention

Stroke survivors and informal caregivers experience high levels of stress and anxiety, linked to heightened risk of secondary stroke in survivors. Relaxation and mindfulness could reduce stress and anxiety; being most effective when tailored to the target populations. Aims of the PPI include to: (1) consult on possible alterations to an existing relaxation and mindfulness intervention, delivered via YouTube/DVD and (2) discuss relevance and preference of prompts and cues designed to facilitate the daily practice of the intervention. Eleven UK PPI contributors were consulted during 2020: four stroke survivors (F = 2, M = 2), three caregivers (F = 1, M = 2), and four HCPs (F = 4) (range = 23-63 years). Contributors watched the existing intervention and provided feedback via online discussions. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Five themes were identified, highlighting several necessary alterations to the intervention: "Who represents the stroke population?"; "The paradox of age"; "Specifically selected language"; "Visual presentation of the intervention"; and the "Audio qualities". Contributors ranked the prompts and cues in order of preference with setting alarms and email alerts as the most popular. The PPI consultations resulted in several alterations enabling a revised version of the intervention. Including a PPI consultation at an early stage of the research improves the relevance and appropriateness of the research. The revised intervention is more representative of the stroke population thus more likely to be practised by survivors and caregivers, which will enhance the extent of effectiveness, reducing the risk of a secondary stroke.

A qualitative process evaluation within a clinical trial that used healthcare technologies for children with asthma-insights and implications

BACKGROUND

Healthcare technologies are becoming more commonplace, however clinical and patient perspectives regarding the use of technology in the management of childhood asthma have yet to be investigated. Within a clinical trial of asthma management in children, we conducted a qualitative process evaluation that provided insights into the experiences and perspectives of healthcare staff and families on (i) the use of smart inhalers to monitor medication adherence and (ii) the use of algorithm generated treatment recommendations.

METHODS

We interviewed trial staff (n = 15) and families (n = 6) who were involved in the trial to gauge perspectives around the use of smart inhalers to monitor adherence and the algorithm to guide clinical decision making.

FINDINGS

Staff and families indicated that there were technical issues associated with the smart inhalers. While staff suggested that the smart inhalers were good for monitoring adherence and enabling communication regarding medication use, parents and children indicated that smart inhaler use increased motivation to adhere to medication and provided the patient (child) with a sense of responsibility for the management of their asthma. Staff were open-minded about the use of the algorithm to guide treatment recommendations, but some were not familiar with its' use in clinical care. There were some concerns expressed regarding treatment step-down decisions generated by the algorithm, and some staff highlighted the importance of using clinical judgement. Families perceived the algorithm to be a useful technology, but indicated that they felt comforted by the clinicians' own judgements.

CONCLUSION

The use of technology and individual data within appointments was considered useful to both staff and families: closer monitoring and the educational impacts were especially highlighted. Utilising an algorithm was broadly acceptable, with caveats around clinicians using the recommendations as a guide only and wariness around extreme step-ups/downs considering contextual factors not taken into account.

Hybrid Concept Analysis of Self-Management Support: School Nurses Supporting Students with Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures

Self-management support has been identified as an effective nursing intervention for improving outcomes for people with chronic conditions, yet this concept lacks a clear definition. Furthermore, the concept has not been used in school nursing literature despite the clear connection between school nursing practice and tenets of self-management support. Additionally, the concept has not been explored in the context of difficult-to-manage mental health concerns, such as psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. A conversion disorder in which seizure events in the absence of abnormal brainwave activity result from stress, psychogenic nonepileptic seizures affect the quality of life and school experience for students experiencing them and could be addressed through self-management support. This hybrid concept analysis included a review of extant literature and semi-structured interviews with school nurses to ascertain a definition of self-management support in the context of school nursing using care of students with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures as an exemplar.

Digital Patient Experience: Umbrella Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

The adoption and use of technology have significantly changed health care delivery. Patient experience has become a significant factor in the entire spectrum of patient-centered health care delivery. Digital health facilitates further improvement and empowerment of patient experiences. Therefore, the design of digital health is served by insights into the barriers to and facilitators of digital patient experience (PEx).

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to systematically review the influencing factors and design considerations of PEx in digital health from the literature and generate design guidelines for further improvement of PEx in digital health.

METHODS

We performed an umbrella systematic review following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) methodology. We searched Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases. Two rounds of small random sampling (20%) were independently reviewed by 2 reviewers who evaluated the eligibility of the articles against the selection criteria. Two-round interrater reliability was assessed using the Fleiss-Cohen coefficient (k1=0.88 and k2=0.80). Thematic analysis was applied to analyze the extracted data based on a small set of a priori categories.

RESULTS

The search yielded 173 records, of which 45 (26%) were selected for data analysis. Findings and conclusions showed a great diversity; most studies presented a set of themes (19/45, 42%) or descriptive information only (16/45, 36%). The digital PEx-related influencing factors were classified into 9 categories: patient capability, patient opportunity, patient motivation, intervention technology, intervention functionality, intervention interaction design, organizational environment, physical environment, and social environment. These can have three types of impacts: positive, negative, or double edged. We captured 4 design constructs (personalization, information, navigation, and visualization) and 3 design methods (human-centered or user-centered design, co-design or participatory design, and inclusive design) as design considerations.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose the following definition for digital PEx: "Digital patient experience is the sum of all interactions affected by a patient's behavioral determinants, framed by digital technologies, and shaped by organizational culture, that influence patient perceptions across the continuum of care channeling digital health." In this study, we constructed a design and evaluation framework that contains 4 phases-define design, define evaluation, design ideation, and design evaluation-and 9 design guidelines to help digital health designers and developers address digital PEx throughout the entire design process. Finally, our review suggests 6 directions for future digital PEx-related research.

Developing a Smartphone Application That Promotes Responsible Short-Acting Beta2-Agonist Use in People with Asthma: A Participatory Design

Around 339 million people worldwide have asthma, and 50% have uncontrolled asthma. One trait of uncontrolled asthma, often seen in primary care, is short-acting β2-agonist (SABA) overuse, defined as using SABA more than twice a week. SABA overuse can cause adverse health effects. An application could help patients gain more insight into their SABA use. Engaging stakeholders during the development is important to maximize the usability of and adherence to an application. This study describes the development process of an application that promotes responsible SABA use in people with asthma, using a participatory design. Different stakeholder groups were involved in two iterative development cycles. In the first cycle, four end-users evaluated the app’s prototype. During the second cycle, five end-users were interviewed about the usability of the new version. Resulting in an app that allows patients to register SABA use, asthma symptoms, and symptom triggers. A graph shows how these factors are related, and end-users can show the graph to their physician to facilitate communication. Medication use is compared to the medical guidelines or, when applicable, to the advice given by the users’ healthcare professionals. End-users found the app helpful. Research into the usability and effectiveness of the app in a bigger sample will follow.

Digital interventions to improve adherence to maintenance medication in asthma

BACKGROUND

Asthma is the most common chronic lung condition worldwide, affecting 334 million adults and children globally. Despite the availability of effective treatment, such as inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), adherence to maintenance medication remains suboptimal. Poor ICS adherence leads to increased asthma symptoms, exacerbations, hospitalisations, and healthcare utilisation. Importantly, suboptimal use of asthma medication is a key contributor to asthma deaths. The impact of digital interventions on adherence and asthma outcomes is unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effectiveness of digital interventions for improving adherence to maintenance treatments in asthma.

SEARCH METHODS

We identified trials from the Cochrane Airways Trials Register, which contains studies identified through multiple electronic searches and handsearches of other sources. We also searched trial registries and reference lists of primary studies. We conducted the most recent searches on 1 June 2020, with no restrictions on language of publication. A further search was run in October 2021, but studies were not fully incorporated.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) including cluster- and quasi-randomised trials of any duration in any setting, comparing a digital adherence intervention with a non-digital adherence intervention or usual care. We included adults and children with a clinical diagnosis of asthma, receiving maintenance treatment.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard methodological procedures for data collection. We used GRADE to assess quantitative outcomes where data were available.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 40 parallel randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving adults and children with asthma (n = 15,207), of which eight are ongoing studies. Of the included studies, 30 contributed data to at least one meta-analysis. The total number of participants ranged from 18 to 8517 (median 339). Intervention length ranged from two to 104 weeks. Most studies (n = 29) reported adherence to maintenance medication as their primary outcome; other outcomes such as asthma control and quality of life were also commonly reported. Studies had low or unclear risk of selection bias but high risk of performance and detection biases due to inability to blind the participants, personnel, or outcome assessors. A quarter of the studies had high risk of attrition bias and selective outcome reporting. We examined the effect of digital interventions using meta-analysis for the following outcomes: adherence (16 studies); asthma control (16 studies); asthma exacerbations (six studies); unscheduled healthcare utilisation (four studies); lung function (seven studies); and quality of life (10 studies). Pooled results showed that patients receiving digital interventions may have increased adherence (mean difference of 14.66 percentage points, 95% confidence interval (CI) 7.74 to 21.57; low-certainty evidence); this is likely to be clinically significant in those with poor baseline medication adherence. Subgroup analysis by type of intervention was significant (P = 0.001), with better adherence shown with electronic monitoring devices (EMDs) (23 percentage points over control, 95% CI 10.84 to 34.16; seven studies), and with short message services (SMS) (12 percentage points over control, 95% CI 6.22 to 18.03; four studies). No significant subgroup differences were seen for interventions having an in-person component versus fully digital interventions, adherence feedback, one or multiple digital components to the intervention, or participant age. Digital interventions were likely to improve asthma control (standardised mean difference (SMD) 0.31 higher, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.44; moderate-certainty evidence) - a small but likely clinically significant effect. They may reduce asthma exacerbations (risk ratio 0.53, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.91; low-certainty evidence). Digital interventions may result in a slight change in unscheduled healthcare utilisation, although some studies reported no or a worsened effect. School or work absence data could not be included for meta-analysis due to the heterogeneity in reporting and the low number of studies. They may result in little or no difference in lung function (forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV₁)): there was an improvement of 3.58% predicted FEV₁, 95% CI 1.00% to 6.17%; moderate-certainty evidence); however, this is unlikely to be clinically significant as the FEV₁ change is below 12%. Digital interventions likely increase quality of life (SMD 0.26 higher, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.45; moderate-certainty evidence); however, this is a small effect that may not be clinically significant. Acceptability data showed positive attitudes towards digital interventions. There were no data on cost-effectiveness or adverse events. Our confidence in the evidence was reduced by risk of bias and inconsistency.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Overall, digital interventions may result in a large increase in adherence (low-certainty evidence). There is moderate-certainty evidence that digital adherence interventions likely improve asthma control to a degree that is clinically significant, and likely increase quality of life, but there is little or no improvement in lung function. The review found low-certainty evidence that digital interventions may reduce asthma exacerbations. Subgroup analyses show that EMDs may improve adherence by 23% and SMS interventions by 12%, and interventions with an in-person element and adherence feedback may have greater benefits for asthma control and adherence, respectively. Future studies should include percentage adherence as a routine outcome measure to enable comparison between studies and meta-analysis, and use validated questionnaires to assess adherence and outcomes.

Development and Feasibility of a Mobile Asthma App for Children and Their Caregivers: Mixed Methods Study

Background

Mobile health apps can support the self-management of pediatric asthma. Previous studies on mobile apps for children aged >7 years with asthma are limited, and most reports on asthma apps do not consider interactions between the children and their caregivers. Therefore, we developed an asthma app for children aged 0-12 years and their caregivers based on the results of our previous study regarding user needs.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a developed mobile app for children with asthma and their caregivers and to modify and complete the app according to the feasibility results.

Methods

We recruited children diagnosed with persistent asthma by an allergy specialist at 2 children’s hospitals, 1 university hospital, 2 general hospitals, and 1 pediatric clinic. Thereafter, the app usage was assessed, and questionnaires were administered. This study used convergent mixed methods, including providing user feedback about the pediatric asthma app, completing questionnaire surveys regarding preferences, and obtaining quantitative data about app usage. Quantitative data were analyzed based on the ratings provided for the app features used by the participants, and the usage of the app features was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were analyzed via a descriptive qualitative research analysis and were used to identify codes from the content-characteristic words.

Results

In total, 30 pairs of children aged 2-12 years and their caregivers responded to the 3-month survey, and 20 pairs of children aged 4-12 years and their caregivers responded to the 6-month survey. In the 3- and 6-month surveys, “record” was the most commonly used feature by both caregivers and children. The average access logs per month among the 20 pairs ranged from 50 to 79 in the 6-month survey. The number of access logs decreased over time. In the qualitative results, app utilization difficulties were identified for 6 categories: record, preparing, alert settings, change settings, mobile phone owner, and display and motivation. Regarding app feasibility, 60% (12/20) of the caregivers strongly agreed or agreed for all evaluation items, while 63% (7/11) of the children strongly agreed or agreed for 6 items, excluding satisfaction. In the qualitative results, feasibility evaluation of the app was classified into 3 categories: high feasibility of the app, improvement points for the app, and personal factors preventing app utilization. Based on the results of the feasibility analysis, the final version of the app was modified and completed.

Conclusions

The app feasibility among children with asthma and their caregivers was generally good. Children aged 7-12 years used elements such as record, quiz, and manga. This app can support the continuous self-management of pediatric asthma. However, efforts must be taken to maintain and improve the app quality.

Trial Registration

UMIN Clinical Trials Registry UMIN000039058; https://tinyurl.com/3na9zyf8

Telemedicine and virtual respiratory care in the era of COVID-19

The World Health Organization defines telemedicine as “an interaction between a health care provider and a patient when the two are separated by distance”. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced a dramatic shift to telephone and video consulting for follow up and routine ambulatory care for reasons of infection control. Short Message Service (“text”) messaging has proved a useful adjunct to remote consulting allowing transfer of photographs and documents. Maintaining non-communicable diseases care is a core component of pandemic preparedness and telemedicine has developed to enable (for example) remote monitoring of sleep apnoea, telemonitoring of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, digital support for asthma self-management, remote delivery of pulmonary rehabilitation. There are multiple exemplars of telehealth instigated rapidly to provide care for people with COVID-19, to manage the spread of the pandemic, or to maintain safe routine diagnostic or treatment services.

Despite many positive examples of equivalent functionality and safety, there remain questions about the impact of remote delivery of care on rapport and the longer-term impact on patient/professional relationships. Although telehealth has the potential to contribute to universal health coverage by providing cost-effective accessible care, there is a risk of increasing social health inequalities if the “digital divide” excludes those most in need of care. As we emerge from the pandemic, the balance of remote versus face-to-face consulting, and the specific role of digital health in different clinical and healthcare contexts will evolve. What is clear is that telemedicine in one form or another will be part of the “new norm”.

Efficacy of Telemedicine for the Management of Asthma: A Systematic Review

Background

Considering the increased prevalence of asthma and its consequences for individuals and society, its effective management and close monitoring is essential. Awareness of the effects of telemedicine can improve asthma management. The present study aimed to systematically review articles examining the effect of telemedicine on the management of asthma, including control of the symptom, patients' quality of life, costs, and adherence to treatment programs.

Materials and Methods

A systematic search was performed on four databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus. English language clinical trials investigating the effectiveness of telemedicine in asthma management published from 2005 to 2018 were selected and retrieved. The present study was designed and conducted based on the PRISMA guidelines.

Results

Out of 33 articles included in this research, telemedicine was employed by 23 studies for the promotion of patient adherence to treatment in the form of reminders and feedback, by 18 for telemonitoring and communicating with healthcare providers, by six for offering remote patient education, and by five for counseling. The most frequently used telemedicine approach was asynchronous (used in 21 articles), and the most commonly utilized tool was Web-based (utilized in 11 articles).

Conclusion

Telemedicine can improve symptom control, patients' quality of life, and adherence to treatment programs. However, little evidence exists confirming the effectiveness of telemedicine in decreasing costs.

Adaptation of an In-Person Internship to a Virtual Format for Public Health Undergraduates

The disruption of traditional, in-person learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the rapid development and use of revised and novel learning opportunities using a variety of remote instructional methodologies. This viewpoint describes the process used by an undergraduate Public Health program to transition a traditional, in-person, semester-long, 480-hour internship to a virtual-only learning experience guided by the existing student learning outcomes. Working closely with public health professionals at existing internship agencies, alumni from the program, student interns, and program faculty developed a modified virtual internship composed of 6 components. The development of this modified virtual internship model was guided by previous research on the components of successful internships and the elements of high-impact learning practices.

Exploring the experiences of people and family carers from under-represented groups in self-managing Parkinson's disease and their use of digital health to do this

Introduction

Digital health is thought to enable people to better manage chronic conditions, such as Parkinson's. However, little is known about how people from under-represented groups with chronic conditions use digital health to self-manage.

Objective

The objective of our study was to explore the experiences of people and family carers from under-represented groups in self-managing Parkinson's, including their use of digital health to do this.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews (n = 18, including four dyadic) were conducted remotely, with 16 people with Parkinson's and six family carers in 2020–2021. Participants were purposively sampled from under-represented groups: belong to an ethnic minority, or having significant physical or sensory impairment. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Three main themes of importance were developed: ‘self-management support’, ‘digital health use to support self-management’ and ‘identity, attitudes and characteristics’. Participants received medical, psychological, social and practical self-management support. Some participants used digital health resources, e.g., Parkinson's UK website. Digital literacy was the biggest barrier to using digital health, regardless of background, often dependant on previous occupation and confidence. Few ethnic minority participants thought race or culture alters self-management ability and most believed there was no need for digital health interventions to be tailored to an individual's race or culture. Some felt inclusivity was important in terms of diverse images of people. A range of considerations were identified to optimise digital health, such as assistive equipment for people with sensory impairment.

Conclusions

Barriers to using digital health for self-management were primarily dependent on personal factors including digital literacy and attitudes but rarely race or culture. We recommend the optimisation of digital health interventions by providing assistive technology at low cost, and visual inclusiveness should be promoted by including images of people from diverse backgrounds.

A systematic evaluation of primary headache management apps leveraging behavior change techniques

BACKGROUND

Mobile health apps have the potential to promote adherence to headache management through the use of evidence-based behavior change techniques (e.g., self-monitoring). While many headache management apps exist, the extent to which these apps include behavior change techniques remains unknown. Thus, the present study systematically evaluated the content and quality of commercially available headache management apps.

METHODS

Headache apps were identified using a systematic search in the Apple App and Google Play stores. A total of 55 apps were evaluated using the taxonomy of behavior change techniques and app quality using the Mobile App Rating Scale.

RESULTS

Headache management apps included 0-14 behavior change techniques (Mean [M] = 5.89) and 0-8 headache management behavior change techniques (M = 4.29). App quality ranged from 2.84-4.67 (M = 3.73) out of 5.00. Three apps, Migraine Trainer, Easeday: Headache & Migraine, and PainScale, included the highest number of overall and headache management behavior change techniques along with good quality scores.

CONCLUSIONS

While randomized controlled trials are necessary to determine the efficacy of individual headache apps, most existing apps include evidence-based headache management behavior change techniques. Headache apps often focus on either self-monitoring or stress management via relaxation training, suggesting that patients' needs should be used to inform app selection.

Digital Technologies for Monitoring and Improving Treatment Adherence in Children and Adolescents With Asthma: Scoping Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Inadequate pediatric asthma care has resulted in potentially avoidable unplanned hospital admissions and morbidity. A wide variety of digital technologies have been developed to monitor and support treatment adherence in children and adolescents with asthma. However, existing reviews need to be updated and expanded to provide an overview of the current state of research on these technologies and how they are being integrated into existing health care services and care pathways.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to provide an overview of the current research landscape and knowledge gaps regarding the use of digital technologies to support the care of children and adolescents with asthma.

METHODS

This study was structured according to the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) and Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome, and Study frameworks. Five databases (PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, Embase, and PsycINFO) were systematically searched for studies published in English from 2014 onward. Two reviewers independently screened the references and selected studies for inclusion based on the eligibility criteria. Data were systematically extracted per research question, which were synthesized in a descriptive analysis.

RESULTS

A wide variety of study characteristics, including the number and age of participants, study duration, and type of digital intervention, were identified. There was mixed evidence for the effectiveness of the interventions. Of the 10 studies that evaluated treatment adherence, 7 (70%) found improvements, but the evidence was inconsistent for asthma control (6/9, 67% of studies reported improvement or maintenance, but only 1 was significantly different between groups) and health outcome variables (5/9, 56% of studies found no evidence of effectiveness). The 6 studies that examined patient perceptions and assessments of acceptability and usability generally had positive findings.

CONCLUSIONS

A wide range of digital interventions are being developed and evaluated to support the monitoring and treatment adherence of children and adolescents with asthma. Meta-analyses are inhibited by the use of samples with a variety of overlapping age ranges; a theoretical framework for evaluating specific age groups would aid comparison between studies. Most studies found significant evidence for improved adherence to treatment or medications, but there was mixed evidence of the impact of the digital interventions on asthma control and other health outcomes. There are gaps in the literature relating to cost-effectiveness and integration with existing clinical care pathways. This study will be necessary to determine which digital interventions for children and young people with asthma are worth supporting and adopting in the clinical care pathways.

Isn't There an App for That? The Role of Smartphone and Tablet Applications for Asthma Education and Self-Management in Adolescents

Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide, with a substantial proportion of the asthma population being children and adolescents. Self-management is recognized as a key component to asthma management, with multiple international guidelines emphasizing the need for adequate self-management skills for good asthma control. Unfortunately, the uptake amongst young people and adolescents is low, with often suboptimal engagement to self-management education and skills contributing to poor adherence to medication as well as poor perception of asthma symptoms. Innovative solutions to deliver education and self-management to adolescents are clearly needed. mHealth is the use of mobile devices such as smartphones and tablet devices to improve healthcare and has been used in multiple chronic diseases. This review articles explores the current use of mHealth in asthma, specifically smartphone and tablet applications as a generation-appropriate, accessible delivery modality for provision of asthma education and self-management interventions in adolescents. Current evidence gaps are also highlighted, which should be addressed in future research.

Can digital communication technology reduce health system personnel time? An evaluation of personnel requirements and costs in a randomized controlled trial

Use of digital communication technologies (DCT) shows promise for enhancing outcomes and efficiencies in asthma care management. However, little is known about the impact of DCT interventions on healthcare personnel requirements and costs, thus making it difficult for providers and health systems to understand the value of these interventions. This study evaluated the differences in healthcare personnel requirements and costs between usual asthma care (UC) and a DCT intervention (Breathewell) aimed at maintaining guidelines-based asthma care while reducing health care staffing requirements. We used data from a pragmatic, randomized controlled trial conducted in a large integrated health system involving 14,978 patients diagnosed with asthma. To evaluate differences in staffing requirements and cost between Breathewell and UC needed to deliver guideline-based care we used electronic health record (EHR) events, provider time tracking surveys, and invoicing. Differences in cost were reported at the patient and health system level. The Breathewell intervention significantly reduced personnel requirements with a larger percentage of participants requiring no personnel time (45% vs. 5%, p < .001) and smaller percentage of participants requiring follow-up outreach (44% vs. 68%, p < .001). Extrapolated to the total health system, cost for the Breathewell intervention was $16,278 less than usual care. The intervention became cost savings at a sample size of at least 957 patients diagnosed with asthma. At the population level, using DCT to compliment current asthma care practice presents an opportunity to reduce healthcare personnel requirements while maintaining population-based asthma control measures.

Feasibility, Efficacy, and Efficiency of eHealth-Supported Pediatric Asthma Care: Six-Month Quasi-Experimental Single-Arm Pretest-Posttest Study

BACKGROUND

Early detection of loss of asthma control can effectively reduce the burden of the disease. However, broad implementation in clinical practice has not been accomplished so far. We are in need of research investigating the operationalization of eHealth pediatric asthma care in practice, which can provide the most potential benefits in terms of adoption, efficiency, and effectiveness.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the technical and clinical feasibility, including an exploration of the efficacy and cost-efficiency, of an eHealth program implemented in daily clinical pediatric asthma practice.

METHODS

We designed an eHealth-supported pediatric asthma program facilitating early detection of loss of asthma control while increasing symptom awareness and self-management. In the 6-month program, asthma control was monitored by 4 health care professionals (HCPs) by using objective home measurements and the web-based Puffer app to allow timely medical anticipation and prevent treatment delay. Technical feasibility was assessed by technology use, system usability, and technology acceptance. Clinical feasibility was assessed by participation and patient-reported health and care outcomes and via a focus group with HCPs regarding their experiences of implementing eHealth in daily practice. The efficacy and cost-efficiency were explored by comparing pretest-posttest program differences in asthma outcomes (asthma control, lung function, and therapy adherence) and medical consumption.

RESULTS

Of 41 children, 35 children with moderate-to-severe asthma volunteered for participation. With regard to technical feasibility, the Puffer app scored a good usability score of 78 on the System Usability Scale and a score of 70 for technology acceptance on a scale of 1 to 100. Approximately 75% (18/24) of the children indicated that eHealth helped them to control their asthma during the program. HCPs indicated that home measurements and real time communication enabled them to make safe and substantiated medical decisions during symptom manifestations. With an average time commitment of 15 minutes by patients, eHealth care led to a 80% gross reduction (from €71,784 to €14,018, US $1=€0.85) in health care utilization, 8.6% increase (from 18.6 to 20.2, P=.40) in asthma control, 25.0% increase (from 2.8 to 3.5, P=.04) in the self-management level, and 20.4% improved (from 71.2 to 76.8, P=.02) therapy adherence.

CONCLUSIONS

eHealth asthma care seems to be technically and clinically feasible, enables safe remote care, and seems to be beneficial for pediatric asthma care in terms of health outcomes and health care utilization. Follow-up research should focus on targeted effectiveness studies with the lessons learned, while also enabling individualization of eHealth for personalized health care.

Assessment of Variation in Care Following Hospital Discharge for Children with Acute Asthma

Purpose

To evaluate potential variation in care management pathways following hospital discharge for children with asthma in New South Wales, Australia.

Methods

A cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted in emergency departments (EDs) and paediatric units of public hospitals with more than five paediatric beds within New South Wales, Australia, between July 2018 and March 2019. Nursing and medical staff in EDs and paediatric units who had cared for children aged under 18 years with asthma in the preceding 12 months were invited to participate in this study. Outcome measures included use of clinical practice guidelines and asthma action plan (AAP); advice on post-hospitalization follow-up; provision of asthma education for parents/carers; availability of community-based asthma services; communication with schools/childcare services.

Results

A total of 502 participants (236 nursing and 266 medical staff, response rate=22%) from 37 hospitals were included. Overall, the use of AAP was not universal (median=90%; IQR=81–96%) with significant difference across local health districts (LHDs) (88.6%, 95% CI=85.4–91.3) and between EDs and paediatric wards (p=9.4×10⁻⁹); and a range of asthma clinical practice guidelines were used. Post-hospitalization follow-up within 2–3 days was recommended by 70% of the respondents, but only 8% reported that hospitals had a system in place to ensure follow-up compliance. Formal asthma education sessions (27% respondents) were seldom provided to parents/carers during hospital stays, especially in EDs (14% respondents). Less than 50% of the respondents were aware of any asthma community services for children and only 4% reported that schools/childcare services were notified about the child’s hospital admission for an asthma flare up.

Conclusion

There are marked variations in the post-hospitalization asthma care and community management for children in NSW. An integrated standardized model of care may improve health outcomes in children with asthma.

How effective are digital interventions in increasing flu vaccination among pregnant women? A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Flu can have serious consequences for pregnant woman and unborn babies. Vaccination provides safe and effective protection, yet uptake among pregnant women is below national targets. Digital interventions are effective at increasing adherence to health interventions.

AIMS

This review aimed to establish whether digital interventions are effective at increasing rates of flu vaccination among pregnant women, and to determine the overall effect size.

METHOD

Systematic searches identified digital intervention trials, aiming to increase rate of flu vaccination among pregnant women. Random-effects meta-analysis provided a combined effect size and examined which mode of digital interventions had the largest effects on flu vaccination.

RESULTS

Ten studies were included in the review. The majority of digital interventions were more effective at increasing rates of flu vaccination (7-81.3% uptake) than usual care or non-digital interventions (7.3-47.1% uptake). When meta-analysed, digital interventions had a small, non-significant effect (odds ratio [OR] = 1.29, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.71, 2.31), P = 0.40. Text messages (OR = 1.25, 95% CI: 0.58, 2.67), P = 0.57 appeared less effective than other digital interventions (OR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.02, 2.46), P = 0.04.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, there is a lack of high-quality studies reporting the effectiveness of digital interventions at increasing flu vaccination during pregnancy. Future interventions may benefit from using video or social media to communicate messages for maximum success in targeting an increase in rates of flu vaccination in pregnancy.

Mixed methods process evaluation of my breathing matters, a digital intervention to support self-management of asthma

This study aimed to explore user engagement with 'My Breathing Matters', a digital self-management intervention for asthma, and identify factors that may influence engagement. In a mixed methods design, adults with asthma allocated to the intervention arm of a feasibility trial (n = 44) participated in semi-structured interviews (n = 18) and a satisfaction questionnaire (n = 36) to explore their views and experiences of the intervention. Usage data highlighted that key intervention content was delivered to most users. The majority of questionnaire respondents (78%; n = 28) reported they would recommend the intervention to friends and family. Interviewees expressed positive views of the intervention and experienced several benefits, mainly improved asthma control, medication use, and breathing technique. Factors that may influence user engagement were identified, including perceptions of asthma control, current self-management practices, and appeal of the target behaviours and behaviour change techniques. Findings suggested My Breathing Matters was acceptable and engaging to participants, and it was used as intended.

The development of a digital intervention to increase influenza vaccination amongst pregnant women

Objective

Pregnant women and unborn babies are at increased risk of complications from influenza, including pneumonia, yet in the UK, uptake of flu vaccination amongst this population remains <50%. Pregnant women hold beliefs about risks of flu and efficacy of vaccination that consistently predict them to decline vaccination. This study aimed to develop a theory and evidence-based intervention addressing these beliefs to promote flu vaccine uptake.

Methods

The intervention was developed by behavioural scientists, pregnant women, midwives, clinicians and Public Health professionals, informed by Intervention Mapping. Six predefined steps were performed in line with Intervention Mapping.

Results

The intervention is an animation addressing beliefs about risks of flu and efficacy of vaccination. Preliminary testing using qualitative methodology indicates the information within the animation is appropriate, and the animation is acceptable to pregnant women.

Conclusions

This is the first known intervention for pregnant women, aiming to increase flu vaccination through addressing risk and efficacy appraisals. It has been implemented within seasonal flu vaccination campaigns during 2018/19 and 2019/20 within one geographically and ethnically diverse area of the UK.

Blended Self-Management Interventions to Reduce Disease Burden in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Asthma: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma have a high prevalence and disease burden. Blended self-management interventions, which combine eHealth with face-to-face interventions, can help reduce the disease burden.

Objective

This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to examine the effectiveness of blended self-management interventions on health-related effectiveness and process outcomes for people with COPD or asthma.

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science, COCHRANE Library, Emcare, and Embase were searched in December 2018 and updated in November 2020. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias (ROB) 2 tool and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation.

Results

A total of 15 COPD and 7 asthma randomized controlled trials were included in this study. The meta-analysis of COPD studies found that the blended intervention showed a small improvement in exercise capacity (standardized mean difference [SMD] 0.48; 95% CI 0.10-0.85) and a significant improvement in the quality of life (QoL; SMD 0.81; 95% CI 0.11-1.51). Blended intervention also reduced the admission rate (relative ratio [RR] 0.61; 95% CI 0.38-0.97). In the COPD systematic review, regarding the exacerbation frequency, both studies found that the intervention reduced exacerbation frequency (RR 0.38; 95% CI 0.26-0.56). A large effect was found on BMI (d=0.81; 95% CI 0.25-1.34); however, the effect was inconclusive because only 1 study was included. Regarding medication adherence, 2 of 3 studies found a moderate effect (d=0.73; 95% CI 0.50-0.96), and 1 study reported a mixed effect. Regarding self-management ability, 1 study reported a large effect (d=1.15; 95% CI 0.66-1.62), and no effect was reported in that study. No effect was found on other process outcomes. The meta-analysis of asthma studies found that blended intervention had a small improvement in lung function (SMD 0.40; 95% CI 0.18-0.62) and QoL (SMD 0.36; 95% CI 0.21-0.50) and a moderate improvement in asthma control (SMD 0.67; 95% CI 0.40-0.93). A large effect was found on BMI (d=1.42; 95% CI 0.28-2.42) and exercise capacity (d=1.50; 95% CI 0.35-2.50); however, 1 study was included per outcome. There was no effect on other outcomes. Furthermore, the majority of the 22 studies showed some concerns about the ROB, and the quality of evidence varied.

Conclusions

In patients with COPD, the blended self-management interventions had mixed effects on health-related outcomes, with the strongest evidence found for exercise capacity, QoL, and admission rate. Furthermore, the review suggested that the interventions resulted in small effects on lung function and QoL and a moderate effect on asthma control in patients with asthma. There is some evidence for the effectiveness of blended self-management interventions for patients with COPD and asthma; however, more research is needed.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42019119894; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=119894

Impact of Technology-Based Interventions on Patient-Reported Outcomes in Asthma: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Technology-based interventions (TBIs) can improve asthma management by facilitating patient education, symptom monitoring, environmental trigger control, comorbid condition management, and medication adherence. Collecting patient-reported outcomes (PROs) can identify effective interventions and ensure patient-centered care, but it is unclear which TBIs have been formally evaluated using PROs.

OBJECTIVES

We aim to: (1) identify the TBIs that have been evaluated in clinical trials using PROs; (2) identify the most commonly used PROs in these trials; and (3) determine the impact of TBIs on PROs in the management of chronic asthma.

METHODS

We searched the PubMed and Clinicaltrials.gov databases for studies published in English between January 2000 and February 2020 using the following search criteria: "asthma," "IT-based interventions," "information technology," "technology," "dyspnea," "patient reported outcomes," "PROs," "telehealth," "telemedicine," and "mobile devices." Two independent reviewers screened the studies and determined study inclusion. Studies were examined for the types of interventions used, the types of PROs collected, and outcomes.

RESULTS

The final analysis included 14 clinical trials with either 1, 2, or 3 arms. Five different types of TBIs were identified, most commonly involving multimedia education. Four different categories of PROs were identified, most commonly involving treatment self-efficacy. Positive outcomes in at least 1 PRO domain were reported in 12 of 14 studies. Pooled meta-analysis was not possible due to the heterogeneity of PRO instruments across studies.

CONCLUSION

TBIs improve PROs overall in patients with asthma. Future trials investigating TBIs should include standardized PROs as endpoints to better clarify this relationship.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Change in Health-Related Quality of Life for Interactive Telehealth Interventions for Patients With Asthma

OBJECTIVES

Asthma is one of the most common major noncommunicable diseases in the world and affects individuals of all ages. Medication is used to achieve and maintain quality of life (QOL) for people with asthma. Telehealth interventions offer optimized and personalized symptom monitoring with timely treatment adjustment and the potential to increase medication adherence for individuals with asthma. This study examines and synthesizes the available data on the change in the QOL for patients with asthma who use interactive telehealth interventions, and identifies the most effective telehealth modalities used for intervention in this area.

METHODS

Literature searches were conducted in 5 databases in November 2018 for studies measuring a change in QOL for patients with asthma. Study QOL outcomes, where possible, were pooled in a meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Seventeen publications (describing 16 studies) comprising 2015 patients were included. Based on a meta-analysis, interactive telehealth interventions can improve QOL outcomes for people living with asthma, although the improved effects may be small: web portals (0.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.00 to 1.03), interactive smartphone apps (0.30, 95% CI -0.16 to 0.76) and remote monitoring (standardized mean difference 0.20, 95% CI -0.11 to 0.52). Intervention delivery modalities identified include interactive web portals, smartphone apps, and remote monitoring programs.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings provide a comprehensive overview of the available literature on interactive telehealth interventions, including interactive web portals, smartphone apps, and remote monitoring programs. These findings demonstrated that a positive change in QOL can be attributed to these interventions and provide evidence for the implementation of telehealth interventions for individuals with asthma.

New Concepts and Technological Resources in Patient Education and Asthma Self-Management

Asthma is a chronic disease that is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In general, the use of technology resources or electronic health (e-health) has been shown to have beneficial effects on patients with asthma. E-health can impact a broad section of patients and can be cost-effective and associated with high patient satisfaction. E-health may enable remote delivery of care, as well as timely access to health care, which are some of the common challenges faced by patients with asthma. Web-based asthma self-management systems have been found to improve quality of life, self-reported asthma symptoms, lung function, reduction in asthma symptoms/exacerbations, and self-reported adherence for adults. Social media is commonly being used as a platform to disseminate information on asthma to increase public awareness. It can facilitate asthma self-management in a patient friendly manner and has shown to improve asthma control test scores as well as self-esteem. Text massages reminders can increase awareness regarding asthma treatment and control, thus potentially can improve adherence to medications and asthma outcome. Mobile health applications can support asthma self-management, improve a patient's quality of life, promote medication adherence, and potentially reduce the overall costs for asthma care. Inhaler trackers have shown to be beneficial to asthma outcome in various populations by improving adherence to asthma medications. Barriers such as physician financial reimbursement as well as licensing for rendering tele-healthcare services are important concerns. Other limitations of using technology resources in health care are related to liability, professionalism, and ethical issues such as breach of patient confidentiality and privacy. Additionally, there may be less face-to-face interaction and care of the patient when e-health is used.

Impact of telemedicine on health outcomes in children with medical complexity: an integrative review

Children with medical complexity (CMC) are a high priority population with chronic illnesses dependent on the use of health services, on technological systems to support their vital functions and characterized by multiple health needs. One of the main challenges linked to chronic conditions is finding solutions to monitor CMC at home, avoiding re-hospitalization and the onset of complications. Telemedicine enables to remotely follow up patients and families. An integrative review was performed to assess whether telemedicine improves health outcomes for CMC. Medline/PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched to identify studies describing the effect of using telemedicine systems on health outcomes for CMC. The PRISMA guidelines were used to select the papers. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated through the Johanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools and the Cochrane Collaboration ROB 2.0. A total of 17 papers met the quality criteria and were included. Specialized telemedicine systems (tele-visits), telehealth, and tele-monitoring have been reported to reduce unplanned hospitalizations and visits, decrease total costs for healthcare services and families, and increase satisfaction for family members. No effect was found on the quality of life in children and their families.Conclusion: Available evidence supporting the use of telemedicine in CMC is favorable but limited. High-quality methodological studies including other unexplored health outcomes such as mental health, hospital readmissions, mortality, caregiver competences, and self-efficacy are needed to confirm the effectiveness of telemedicine systems in improving health outcomes for CMC. What is Known: • CMC are an extremely fragile patient population with frequent access to healthcare services compared with other chronic conditions. • There is conflicting evidence of the effectiveness of telemedicine clinical outcomes, healthcare utilization, and costs in pediatrics. What is New: • There is some evidence that for CMC, telemedicine reduces unplanned hospitalizations, healthcare service costs, and financial burden for families, while increasing caregivers' satisfaction with care. • Further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of telemedicine systems in improving health for CMC.

Assessing of patients’ knowledge of anaphylactic shock and allergies

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) identified allergy as one of the major problems of the 21st century. It was also stated to be a key issue for health protection and public health care activity in the White Book on Allergy published in 2011. An allergy or atopy is called type I hypersensitivity. It may take the form of immediate (anaphylaxis) or late symptoms including allergic rhinitis and eye diseases, atopic dermatitis, food allergies, anaphylactic shock, allergic asthma and hives. Anaphylaxis and anaphylactic shock can occur at any age. Aim of the study: The goal of the study was to assess patient knowledge about allergies and appropriate actions to take in situations of severe allergic symptoms including anaphylactic shock. Material and methods: The study was conducted in 2018 among 150 adult patients in a clinic of Allergy at Optima Medycyna SA in Opole. The author’s survey questionnaire contained 27 closed single or multiple-choice questions. Results: A satisfactory level of knowledge of the most life-threatening allergy exacerbations was found in 79.3% (119) of the examinees. 53.3% (80) had correct knowledge of how to act in the case of a severe allergic shortness of breath and symptoms that do not subside despite administering medications. In such instances, 46.7% did not know what to do. Only 84.7% (127) of respondents knew the definition of anaphylactic shock while 10% (15) did not know the concept at all. Conclusions: Patients showed a significantly higher level of knowledge about allergy complications than about their causes and prevention. Knowledge about the diagnosis of allergy exacerbations, as well as steps to take in life-threatening situations associated with acute allergic disease and anaphylactic shock in home situations was insufficient. In addition, it was found that nursing staff insufficiently educate patients on allergies and associated complications.

Creating a Smartphone App for Caregivers of Children With Atopic Dermatitis With Caregivers, Health Care Professionals, and Digital Health Experts: Participatory Co-Design

Background

Smartphone apps could support patients and caregivers in disease self-management. However, as patients’ experiences and needs might not always align with clinical judgments, the eliciting and engaging of perspectives of all stakeholders in the smartphone app design process is of paramount importance.

Objective

The aims of this study are to better understand the needs of and challenges facing caregivers and health care professionals (HCPs) who care for children with atopic dermatitis (AD) and to explore the desirable features and content of a smartphone app that would support AD self-management.

Methods

This study adopted a qualitative participatory co-design methodology involving 3 focus group discussions: workshop one focused on caregivers; workshop two engaged with HCPs; and in the last workshop, caregivers and digital health experts were asked to design the wireframe prototype. The participants completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, a technology acceptance questionnaire, and a workshop evaluation form.

Results

Twelve caregivers participated in the first workshop, and 10 HCPs participated in the second workshop. Eight caregivers and 4 digital health experts attended the third workshop. Three superordinate themes that reflected caregivers’ and HCPs’ challenges and needs were identified: empowerment by education, confusion over treatment, and emotional impact. Workshop participants also raised a series of suggestions on the features and contents of the AD self-management app, which informed the last co-design workshop, and described their needs and challenges. In the last workshop, the participants developed a wireframe prototype of the app following the identified requirements and recommendations.

Conclusions

The co-design approach was found to be a successful way of engaging with the participants, as it allowed them to express their creativity and helped us to articulate the root of the clinical problems. The co-design workshop was successful in creating and generating new ideas and solutions for smartphone app development.

Smart devices for the management of pediatric asthma: a scoping review protocol

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this scoping review is to identify the scope of literature published on the use of smart devices for interventions in pediatric asthma, including low income and culturally diverse populations.

INTRODUCTION

Childhood asthma results in substantial morbidity and costs that pose a significant burden to families and healthcare systems. Low-income and culturally diverse pediatric populations have increased rates of morbidity and mortality compared to higher income families. Smart devices have the potential to improve pediatric asthma health outcomes and reduce health disparities.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

This scoping review will consider studies with participants who are children, adolescents and young adults with the diagnosis of asthma (ages zero to 26 years). Studies of children and adolescents and young adults with asthma may include adult participants who manage and/or supervise asthma care or provide asthma instruction.

METHODS

This scoping review will be conducted using the Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycINFO, ERIC, and both Compendex and Inspec through Engineering Village databases. Gray literature searches will also be conducted. Studies will be reviewed independently by two reviewers, with any conflicts adjudicated by a third member. Data extracted will be presented in a tabular format with an accompanying narrative.

Does an mHealth system reduce health service use for asthma?

Background

Breathe is a mobile health (mHealth) application developed for the self-management of asthma in adults. There is evidence to suggest that mHealth interventions can be used for asthma control; however, their effects on the use of health services remain poorly understood. We sought to determine whether Breathe reduces health services use amongst asthma patients who used the app compared to controls who did not.

Methods

The impact of Breathe on health services use was estimated using a quasi-experimental approach. Two groups of subjects who had participated in a previous randomised clinical trial were included: an intervention group of asthma patients who used the app for 12 months, and a group of controls who did not use the app but received equivalent quality asthma care. A third, external control group of asthma patients were matched to the intervention participants. Generalised linear mixed models were used to determine relative changes in rates of asthma hospitalisations, emergency department (ED) visits, outpatient physician visits and completion of pulmonary function tests (PFTs) over time.

Results

A total of 677 individuals with asthma were included in the study: 132 in the intervention group, and 149 and 396 in the internal and external control groups, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in the change of asthma hospitalisations, ED visits, physician office visits or completion of PFTs between the intervention group and either control group.

Conclusions

Use of the Breathe app is not associated with changes in health services use in adults with asthma.

Use of a mobile health application designed for asthma self-management was not associated with changes in asthma health services use or completion of pulmonary function testing in adults with asthma who use the application compared to those who did nothttps://bit.ly/2YojkeE

Asthma and COVID-19: review of evidence on risks and management considerations

BACKGROUND

Respiratory illnesses typically present increased risks to people with asthma (PWA). However, data on the risks of COVID-19 to PWA have presented contradictory findings, with implications for asthma management.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the risks and management considerations of COVID-19 in people with asthma (PWA).

METHOD

We conducted a rapid literature review. We searched PubMed, medRxiv, LitCovid, TRIP, Google and Google Scholar for terms relating to asthma and COVID-19, and for systematic reviews related to specific management questions within our review, in April 2020. References were screened and data were extracted by one reviewer.

RESULTS

We extracted data from 139 references. The evidence available is limited, with some sources suggesting an under-representation of PWA in hospitalised cases and others showing an increased risk of worse outcomes in PWA, which may be associated with disease severity. Consensus broadly holds that asthma medications should be continued as usual. Almost all aspects of asthma care will be disrupted during the pandemic due not only to limits in face-to-face care but also to the fact that many of the diagnostic tools used in asthma are considered aerosol-generating procedures. Self-management and remote interventions may be of benefit for asthma care during this time but have not been tested in this context.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence on COVID-19 and asthma is limited and continuing to emerge. More research is needed on the possible associations between asthma and COVID-19 infection and severity, as well as on interventions to support asthma care in light of constraints and disruptions to healthcare systems. We found no evidence regarding health inequalities, and this urgently needs to be addressed in the literature as the burdens of asthma and of COVID-19 are not equally distributed across the population.

Beneficial Features of a mHealth Asthma App for Children and Caregivers: Qualitative Study

Background

mHealth and uHealth apps are available for children with asthma and their caregivers. However, previous studies on mHealth apps for children older than 7 years old with asthma are limited, and most studies on asthma apps do not consider interactions involving communication between children and caregivers. Therefore, a prototype mHealth child asthma app was developed for children and their caregivers, with features of tailored feedback messages in continuing self-management and interactions between children and caregivers.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify the beneficial features of a prototype mHealth app developed for children with asthma and their caregivers.

Methods

Children diagnosed with persistent asthma by allergy specialists at the National Center for Child Health and Development were recruited. The features of a prototype mHealth app for children with asthma and their caregivers were investigated using semistructured interviews after they tried the app. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Content-characteristic words were named and grouped together as categories to explore themes.

Results

We recruited 27 children with asthma aged 2 to 12 years and 26 their caregivers. Findings on the good aspects of the app for children older than 7 years old and caregivers suggested 4 themes (confirmation of asthma knowledge, child-caregiver interaction, design of the app, and child’s interest), and 6 categories were identified. Findings on the good aspects of app for children 7 to 12 years old and caregivers suggested 5 themes (new knowledge, manga as a Japanese-style comic, child’s interest, trigger of self-management, and design and operability), and 11 categories were identified. Findings on the beneficial features of app suggested 6 themes (asthma knowledge, elements for continuous, universal design, notification, monitoring, and functions), and 12 categories were identified.

Conclusions

Children with asthma and their caregivers perceived that the good aspects of the app were learning asthma knowledge with fun, including manga; interaction between child and caregiver; and easy-to-read design, such as colors. They wanted not only the asthma knowledge but also the universal design and enhanced elements, monitoring, and notification functions of the app.

Mobile Health App for Japanese Adult Patients With Asthma: Clinical Observational Study

Background

Inappropriate asthma control reduces quality of life and causes increased exacerbations. Mobile health (mHealth) employs information and communication technology for surveying health-related issues.

Objective

This noninterventional, observational study assessed current real-world asthma control levels among Japanese patients with asthma and cough variant asthma (CVA) using the Zensoku-Log app.

Methods

We developed the app using the ResearchKit platform and conducted a mobile-based, self-reporting, observational survey among patients with asthma and CVA. The app was downloaded 7855 times between February 2016 and February 2018, and enabled collection of data on symptoms, comorbidities, quality of life, medications, asthma control, and adherence.

Results

Of the 1744 eligible participants (median age 33 years; range 20-74 years; male-to-female ratio 38.7:61.3), 50.97% (889/1744) reported unscheduled visits, 62.84% (1096/1744) reported regularly scheduled visits, 23.14% (402/1737) smoked, and 40.75% (705/1730) had pets. In addition, 91.89% (1598/1739) of participants had atopic predisposition, including allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis. Daily inhaled corticosteroid and oral corticosteroid treatment had been prescribed for 89.45% (1552/1735) and 22.07% (383/1735) of participants, respectively. Although an asthma control questionnaire demonstrated poor asthma control in 58.48% (1010/1727), a leukotriene receptor antagonist, theophylline, and a long-acting muscarinic antagonist had been prescribed for only 30.66% (532/1735), 15.91% (276/1735), and 4.38% (76/1735), respectively. The Adherence Starts with Knowledge 12 total score was 29. In the 421 participants who repeated the questionnaire, asthma control increased significantly between the initial and last rounds (P=.002).

Conclusions

Users of this mHealth app in Japan had poorly controlled asthma and may need more treatment for asthma and their comorbidities. Repeated app users demonstrated improved asthma control.

Trial Registration

UMIN Clinical Trial Registry UMIN000021043; https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000023913.

Digital Behavior Change Interventions for Younger Children With Chronic Health Conditions: Systematic Review

Background

The prevalence of chronic health conditions in childhood is increasing, and behavioral interventions can support the management of these conditions. Compared with face-to-face treatment, the use of digital interventions may be more cost-effective, appealing, and accessible, but there has been inadequate attention to their use with younger populations (children aged 5-12 years).

Objective

This systematic review aims to (1) identify effective digital interventions, (2) report the characteristics of promising interventions, and (3) describe the user’s experience of the digital intervention.

Methods

A total of 4 databases were searched (Excerpta Medica Database [EMBASE], PsycINFO, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online [MEDLINE], and the Cochrane Library) between January 2014 and January 2019. The inclusion criteria for studies were as follows: (1) children aged between 5 and 12 years, (2) interventions for behavior change, (3) randomized controlled trials, (4) digital interventions, and (5) chronic health conditions. Two researchers independently double reviewed papers to assess eligibility, extract data, and assess quality.

Results

Searches run in the databases identified 2643 papers. We identified 17 eligible interventions. The most promising interventions (having a beneficial effect and low risk of bias) were 3 targeting overweight or obesity, using exergaming or social media, and 2 for anxiety, using web-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Characteristics of promising interventions included gaming features, therapist support, and parental involvement. Most were purely behavioral interventions (rather than CBT or third wave), typically using the behavior change techniques (BCTs) feedback and monitoring, shaping knowledge, repetition and substitution, and reward. Three papers included qualitative data on the user’s experience. We developed the following themes: parental involvement, connection with a health professional is important for engagement, technological affordances and barriers, and child-centered design.

Conclusions

Of the 17 eligible interventions, digital interventions for anxiety and overweight or obesity had the greatest promise. Using qualitative methods during digital intervention development and evaluation may lead to more meaningful, usable, feasible, and engaging interventions, especially for this underresearched younger population. The following characteristics could be considered when developing digital interventions for younger children: involvement of parents, gaming features, additional therapist support, behavioral (rather than cognitive) approaches, and particular BCTs (feedback and monitoring, shaping knowledge, repetition and substitution, and reward). This review suggests a model for improving the conceptualization and reporting of behavioral interventions involving children and parents.

Biomedical REAl-Time Health Evaluation (BREATHE): toward an mHealth informatics platform

OBJECTIVE

To describe a configurable mobile health (mHealth) framework for integration of physiologic and environmental sensors to be used in studies focusing on the domain of pediatric asthma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Biomedical REAl-Time Health Evaluation (BREATHE) platform connects different sensors and data streams, contextualizing an individual's symptoms and daily activities over time to understand pediatric asthma's presentation and its management. A smartwatch/smartphone combination serves as a hub for personal/wearable sensing devices collecting data on health (eg, heart rate, spirometry, medications), motion, and personal exposures (eg, particulate matter, ozone); securely transmitting information to BREATHE's servers; and interacting with the user (eg, ecological momentary assessments). Server-side integration of electronic health record data and spatiotemporally correlated information (eg, weather, traffic) elaborates on these observations. An initial panel study involving pediatric asthma patients was conducted to assess BREATHE.

RESULTS

Twenty subjects were enrolled, during which BREATHE accrued seven consecutive days of continuous data per individual. The data were used to confirm knowledge about asthma (use of controller inhalers, time-activity behaviors, personal air pollution exposure), and additional analyses provided insights into within-day associations of environmental triggers and asthma exacerbations. Exit surveys focusing on mHealth usability, while positive, noted several translational challenges.

DISCUSSION

Based on these promising results, a longitudinal panel study to evaluate individual microenvironments and exposures is ongoing. Lessons learned thus far reflect the need to address various usability aspects, including convenience and ongoing engagement.

CONCLUSION

BREATHE enables multi-sensor mHealth studies, capturing new types of information alongside an evolving understanding of personal exposomes.